News|Benjamin NetanyahuUltra-Orthodox fury over military enlistment turns deadly in IsraelAfter withstanding charges of genocide, the issue of ultra-Orthdox enlistment in the military may bring Israel’s coalition down.
The incident involving the death of 14-year-old Yosef Eisenthal during an anti-recruitment protest in an Orthodox district of West Jerusalem has highlighted ongoing debates regarding the exemption of ultra-Orthodox Jews from military service in Israel.
The incident involving the death of 14-year-old Yosef Eisenthal during an anti-recruitment protest in an Orthodox district of West Jerusalem has highlighted ongoing debates regarding the exemption of ultra-Orthodox Jews from military service in Israel.
Eisenthal was part of a large group of ultra-Orthodox, or Haredi, protesters when he was struck by a bus in the Romema neighborhood. The event also resulted in injuries to three other teenagers. Reports indicate that the bus driver had been attacked by demonstrators prior to the incident.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the incident would be thoroughly investigated and urged restraint to prevent further escalation.
Historical Context and Legal Challenges
The exemption for ultra-Orthodox students from military service dates back to 1999, when it was formalized to allow young men to pursue full-time religious study. Legal challenges, including a Supreme Court ruling demanding Haredi recruitment, have reignited the debate, especially in light of reported manpower shortages in Israel's military operations.
Eisenthal was part of a large group of ultra-Orthodox, or Haredi, protesters when he was struck by a bus in the Romema neighborhood.
The exemption issue has significant political ramifications. Prime Minister Netanyahu's coalition partners, United Torah Judaism (UTJ) and Shas, have threatened to withdraw support or vote against the budget unless legislation upholding exemptions is passed. These parties, although holding only 18 parliamentary seats, wield considerable influence due to the fragmented political landscape.
The Haredi community is a growing demographic force, projected to constitute over 30% of Israel's population by 2065, up from 9.9% in 2009. This increase places additional pressure on political parties to address their constituents' concerns, including maintaining military exemptions.
The influence of ultra-Orthodox parties and the community's rapid growth present challenges for Israel's future, particularly in terms of integrating the Haredi population into broader societal frameworks.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
